3 min readCall it aging or call it evolving—as you grow older, you change. So it only makes sense that your home should change with you and reflect where you currently are in life.
Terri Fiori is a certified aging-in-place specialist and designer at Fiori + Co. She notes it's often the simplest of design choices that can have the greatest impact on your quality of life, especially in your later years.
"Interior design is not just about aesthetics," she says. "It’s about feeling confident in your home. As we age, we need just a bit more help, and the right design tweaks can absolutely support us."
Here, Fiori and two other designers weigh in on items that you should consider adding to your home if you're older than age 60.
Appliance Lifts and Garages
If you've been thinking about investing in an appliance lift or garage to conveniently stow counter clutter away, designer Dusti Jones of Dusti J Design can help justify the splurge.
"Appliance lifts and garages can be seen as an unnecessary luxury in a kitchen, but they can be very practical," she says. "It does not take much for a back to tweak for a simple movement of lifting a heavy mixer or toaster oven to a countertop. When someone regularly uses an appliance that is larger and more awkward, having a way to keep it put away while also making it easily accessible is key."
If you're an avid baker, Jones especially recommends investing in a mixer lift. These appliances are notoriously heavy, and she fully believes no one should throw out their back in the process of making cookies.
Staircase Runners
Runners add such a cozy textural touch to your staircase, but they definitely aren't just for looks. When working with clients over age 60, designer Pamela O’Brien of Pamela Hope Designs always pleads the case for a stair runner, primarily because the right one could prevent a fall or soften the blow from one.
"For mature clients, we suggest a carpet pattern with a flat weave but enough texture to provide friction and reduce slippage," she says. "A contrasting color and design also help them see their stairs better and gauge the depth of the steps."
A Small Ottoman
When Fiori is working with retired clients, she often finds what she calls "the elephant in the room," and that's an oversized recliner. As cozy as they are, there's no denying that they're hard to decorate around.
In situations like this, she suggests a chicer but equally cozy alternative: a lightweight ottoman. "These multifunctional pieces act as an extension of your favorite chair while
supporting tired legs," she says.
Additional Lighting
Eyes aren't immune to aging, which means supporting your vision with proper lighting is important. But Jones says that doesn't mean you must live in a constant state of leaving one big, bright overhead light on (which can be painful for sensitive eyes). She recommends layering your lighting with more floor lamps, table lamps, and sconces.
And whatever lighting you add, she says to stick with warmer, frosted bulbs. Your guests will absolutely thank you.
Motorized Shades
We all know that exposing your eyes to sunlight does wonders for your overall mood, which is especially helpful if you find yourself getting outside less as you grow older. But if your window treatments are the least bit inconvenient to open and close, you'll probably be less likely to put in the effort every day.
That's exactly why Fiori always pitches the idea of installing motorized shades, especially for her more mature clients. "No one wants to do gymnastics in order to close the blinds," she says.
Additional or Improved Handrails
The handrails that supported you in your 30s and 40s probably aren't going to serve you well in your 70s and 80s. If you plan on aging in place, O’Brien says to be proactive and install an extra set of handrails or more ergonomic versions.
"Many older homes do not have handrails on both sides of a stairwell or have wobbly rails with just a few, widely spaced brackets," she says. "Handrails can be very decorative and considerably safer when well designed."
Higher Seating
One of the greatest enemies to an aging body is a low seat. "We all like to sink into a sofa, but no one likes being stuck in one," Fiori says. "Do not fall for those overstuffed sectionals!"
When choosing new furniture, she says the sweet spot is to aim for a seat height of at least 19 to 20 inches, as well as arms that are 24 inches high.
